Ammonia caramelCaramel colour class III; may contain 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI), an animal carcinogen.
Sodium benzoatePreservative; can form trace benzene (a carcinogen) when combined with ascorbic acid; implicated in child hyperactivity studies.
Phosphoric acidAcidulant (colas); high total phosphate intake linked to bone-mineral and renal concerns in some studies.
PolyphosphatesInorganic phosphate additives are highly bioavailable; high additive-phosphate intake is associated with increased cardiovascular and kidney burden, particularly in chronic kidney disease.
Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)Synthetic emulsifier linked in animal and in-vitro studies to gut-microbiome disruption and intestinal inflammation; human evidence is emerging.
Per-ingredient concern · chemical identity, not food safety
